It’s that time of year where every journalist compiles a year-in-review post because it’s quick and easy and all their sources are still off enjoying Christmas vacation.

But it’s also an excuse to look back at the restaurant scene in 2012. We gained some great restaurants, and lost some really good ones too. Here’s some highlights of who I’ve written about over the last year, but I’m sure there’s more worth noting. Feel free to add your favorites in the comments section.

We said good-bye to:

QN4U in Clovis closed after its spicy owner Brent Walton died of a heart attack. His widow Kim still runs the catering business of the same name, but the world lost a creative character when Brent left us.

Grand Palace Chinese restaurant closed about a year after it opened, much to the dismay of its fans. But fear not, the restaurant is scheduled to reopen in early 2013 at the former Carrows Restaurant at 1484 E. Shaw Ave. It will have a new name: New City Chinese Restaurant.

The Victoria Rose Restaurant in Old Town Clovis closed this month. Owner Nathan Lewis-Copeland tried his best to bring us organic, local fare, along with his espresso bar and tea, but sadly, it just didn’t pan out.

We said hello to:

Dusty Buns Bistro opened its brick-and-mortar location in April at the corner of Weldon and Echo avenues, drawing its food truck fans like flies to local, organic honey.